Carrillo v. Fabian

Argues that the Minnesota Department of Corrections inmate discipline process violates right to due process

Case Description

In this case, the ACLU of Minnesota filed an amicus curiae brief with the Minnesota Supreme Court arguing that the Minnesota Department of Corrections inmate discipline process violates their right to due process because the standard for determination of whether or not they have violated prison rules is too low.

The current policy allows discipline - which can lengthen the time that the inmate is incarcerated- if there is "some evidence on the record" that points to guilt. Thus, an inmate could face discipline even if the weight of the evidence points to their innocence. The Minnesota Supreme Court invalidated the disciplinary procedures, ruling that a higher standard of proof is required for discipline that results in extended incarceration.